What is extreme? Pronunciation and usage in English

extreme means . Learn how to pronounce and use extreme through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of extreme

extremeadjective

/ɪkˈstriːm//ɛkˈstriːm/
Definition & pronunciation of extreme

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "extreme" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The General Sound:

The word is pronounced with a slightly stressed and emphatic sound. It's not just a simple "extreme."

2. Phonetic Breakdown (using IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet - for accuracy):

  • /ɪkˈstriːm/

Let's break that down:

  • ɪk: Sounds like "ick" – a short, quick "i" sound, like in "it" but shorter.
  • ˈstriːm: This is the core of the pronunciation.
    • st – sounds like "st" as in "stop"
    • r – a light, almost quick "r" sound. Don’t overemphasize it.
    • iːm: This is the tricky part!
      • iː – This is a long "ee" sound, like in "see" or "tree." It's held for a bit longer than a regular "i".
      • m – the "m" sound.

3. Putting it Together – A Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Start with "ick": Say "ick" quickly.
  2. Add the “st”: Say “st” - "ickst"
  3. Say the "r": Add a light "r" - "ickstr"
  4. Say the long “ee” sound followed by “m”: This is the key. Say “see-m” – “ickstream”. Make sure the "ee" sound is long and held a bit.

4. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "ex-treme": Many people incorrectly split the word and say "ex-treme." This is not the correct pronunciation. It should be one continuous word.
  • The "r" is subtle: Don't over-emphasize the "r" sound. It's a very quick, blended "r" – almost like it’s part of the “st” sound.
  • Stress: The stress falls on the second syllable ("stri-"). This is what makes the pronunciation emphatic.

5. Resources to Listen:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/extreme/ – This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word from various regions.
  • Google Translate: Type "extreme" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce extreme" on YouTube and you'll find many helpful videos with visual and audio cues.

To help me tailor the explanation even more, could you tell me:

  • Are you a beginner English learner, or do you have some prior experience?
  • Do you have a particular accent you're trying to match (e.g., American, British)?

Usage and examples with the word extreme in English

Let's break down how to use the word "extreme" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so understanding those is key.

1. Core Meaning: Very High or Low

At its simplest, "extreme" means at the furthest limit or to the greatest degree. It describes something that’s not just regular, but pushed to its absolute boundary.

  • Example: "The weather was extreme – temperatures reached 110 degrees Fahrenheit." (This means the heat was incredibly high.)
  • Example: "The drop in sales was extreme." (This means the decrease was very, very large.)

2. Using "Extreme" to Describe Intensity (Emotion, Feeling, etc.)

"Extreme" often describes strong emotions or feelings.

  • Example: "She felt extreme sadness after hearing the news." (She felt intensely sad.)
  • Example: “He showed extreme joy at his promotion.” (He was thrilled with a very strong feeling of happiness.)
  • Example: "The athlete displayed extreme determination during the competition." (Showing a very powerful and unwavering commitment)

3. Describing Actions or Situations

"Extreme" can be used to describe actions that are beyond the ordinary or extreme circumstances.

  • Example: "The rebels engaged in extreme violence." (They used very brutal and intense violence.)
  • Example: "The government took extreme measures to combat the crisis." (They implemented drastic and often controversial steps.)
  • Example: "He drove his car extremely carefully." (He drove with a very high degree of caution.)

4. Using "Extremely" (Adverb) vs. "Extreme" (Adjective)

This is a common point of confusion.

  • “Extremely” is an adverb – it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It intensifies the word it’s attached to.

    • Example: “The weather is extremely cold.” (Cold is the adjective being intensified.)
    • Example: “He ran extremely quickly.” (Quickly is the adverb being intensified.)

  • “Extreme” is an adjective – it describes a noun.

    • Example: “This is an extreme situation.” (Situation is the noun being described.)

5. Phrases with "Extreme"

Here are some common phrases using "extreme":

  • Extreme sports: Activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, and white-water rafting.
  • Extreme makeover: A dramatic transformation of someone's appearance or home.
  • Extreme prejudice: Intense and unfair bias.
  • Extreme poverty: A very low level of wealth and resources.

Tips for Using "Extreme" Effectively:

  • Don’t overuse it: “Extreme” is a strong word. Using it too often can make your writing and speech sound dramatic and possibly insincere.
  • Consider the context: Make sure “extreme” truly reflects the level of intensity you're describing.
  • Alternatives: Sometimes, a slightly less intense word will be more effective. Consider using words like “very,” “highly,” “intense,” “significant,” or “radical.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing/speaking are you using "extreme" in? (e.g., a formal essay, casual conversation, creative writing?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word extreme

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